Lovegrove returns to Matlacha from trip to France

June 19, 2013

Leoma Lovegrove recently returned to Matlacha after spending two weeks in France to recuperate from painting non-stop and promoting her new line of clothing at Beall's the last few months.

Lovegrove said she ended up painting the barnyard while they stayed at a bed and breakfast in France.

"It was fun, relaxing and more than I thought it would be," she said.

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Leoma Lovegrove with some of the art she painted while in France.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Leoma Lovegrove, far left, stands with Atelier Galerie Letoliacha owner Veronica, where her artwork is being displayed in Giverny, France.

Photo provided

The highlight of her entire trip was a little black baby lamb they encountered. It ended up following her and her husband, Michael Silberg, around while they were there.

"The little lamb followed us like a dog," Lovegrove said, adding that it also laid at their feet in the morning on the dog mat.

She also reconnected with a little gallery, Atelier Galerie Letoliacha, where her work is being represented in Giverny. Lovegrove said she has not visited the gallery in four years, so she was not sure if the gallery was still there, since they come and go.

"She is still there and stronger than ever," she said. "She has some of my work there again."

An exhibition will be held at the gallery next September.

"That's pretty exciting," Lovegrove said.

She said the area reminds her of a European Matlacha because it is a mile long area with art galleries and little restaurants and lots of character.

"It's the reason we keep on going back," Lovegrove said.

Although the planning is still in the early stages, she said she booked a place in Giverny, Le Moulin Des Chennevieres, where she will be taking 16 students next year to experience a real French country. The experience will include painting in Claude Monet's House and Gardens, which is a short walk away.

The cost will be around $3,000, which does not include airfare.

"You get to experience the wine, meals by someone who actually lives in Giverny," Lovegrove said, adding that they do speak English in the area. "They can share their stories."

In addition to painting in Monet's garden, she said her students will also have the opportunity to experience the French markets, flowers, castles and great historical landmarks through many road trips.

"I have traveled the world and have seen nothing like this," Lovegrove said.